Drug addiction can feel like a never-ending nightmare. It eats away at the person suffering from it and their loved ones. It’s one of the most terrible things imaginable to watch someone you care about suffer a downward spiral. But there is hope. There are ways to help someone with drug addiction, even if they seem unwilling or unresponsive to help.
Before you start, you must understand that it will not be an easy journey. Drug addiction causes denial, anger, and a whole host of other emotions. You will need to be patient and understand that the person you are helping is not in their right mind. They may lash out or be mean. But if you stick by them and show them your support, they will have a much better chance of beating their addiction.
Understand the Situation at Hand:
You think you know the person you’re helping, but addiction changes people. The first step is to get as much information about their drug use as possible. It means talking to them about why they are using drugs, how much they are using, and what kind of drugs they are taking. Once you have a clear understanding of what they’re going through, you can start to help them in a more informed way.
Some people use drugs to relieve underlying mental health issues; others may just be dabbling in drug use for fun. It’s essential to understand the person’s motivation for using drugs before you can help them overcome their addiction. If you feel the case is severe, you need to get them professional help in addition to your support. Rehabilitation centers like Serenity at Summit can provide the necessary tools and support to help someone get clean.
Educate Yourself:
You can’t expect to walk in and tame the beast if you don’t know what you’re dealing with. Educate yourself on drug addiction and the effects it has on the person. This way, you can be more supportive and understanding when going through tough times.
There are numerous types of drug addictions, and each one has a different set of withdrawal symptoms. For instance, heroin addiction causes intense cravings and severe withdrawal symptoms like sweating, body aches, and diarrhea. On the other hand, marijuana addiction may not result in any physical symptoms but can cause psychological effects like anxiety and paranoia. The intensity of symptoms varies from one individual to the next, and it is determined by how long they have been hooked.
Find Them a Rehabilitation Center and Treatment:
You’re a strong-headed individual who wants to assist your loved one in overcoming addiction, but you can’t do it alone! The greatest approach to cure someone addicted is to get them into a rehabilitation facility. Treatment centers cater to different types of drug addictions and have various methods of assisting people to overcome their addiction. For instance, some rehabilitation centers focus on detoxification, while others may use behavioral therapy or medication-assisted treatment.
The most crucial aspect is that you research the different types of rehabilitation centers and find one that will be the most effective for your loved one’s particular situation. Look for reviews from other people who have been through the program and accreditation from national organizations.
Keep Them Accountable:
It’s extremely critical to set boundaries with someone struggling with addiction. They may not like it, but it’s necessary. Let them know that you’re there for them but that their drug use is unacceptable. It means being firm when they try to justify their behavior or make excuses. It’s also vital to avoid enabling them by giving in to their demands or making things too easy for them.
Remember, their addiction will make them go to extreme lengths to get their fix. They may lie, cheat, or steal from you. You must be aware of this and not let yourself be taken advantage of. Most importantly, don’t give in, no matter how hard it is.
Keep Them Busy and Entertained:
One of the best ways to help someone with drug addiction is to keep them busy. It can be anything from keeping them occupied with work or activities to providing positive distractions like hobbies or fun outings. The key is to keep their minds off drugs and focus on something else.
Pick an activity they enjoy and do it with them. Go for a walk, watch a movie, or take a trip to the park. The important thing is to make sure they have fun and stay healthy. It is also important that they feel like part of something and not just sitting around waiting for their next fix.
Be Supportive:
It’s also crucial that you remain supportive and positive throughout this process. They will likely face many challenges and setbacks along the way. Be there for them when needed, but don’t coddle them. Encouragement and motivation are essential, but so are setting boundaries. Express that you love them and want what’s best for them but that their drug use is unacceptable. It means being firm when trying to push your boundaries and being understanding and non-judgmental.
Most importantly, be positive and encouraging. Express your support for them. Tell them you have faith in them and that you will be there for them during this tough time. Offer practical support, like helping them find treatment programs or providing transportation to appointments.
Be Mindful of Symptoms of Relapse:
Beware! Relapse is inevitable in some cases, and as a support system, you need to be prepared for it. It can happen even after long periods of sobriety, so it’s essential to be mindful of the signs. Some common warning signs include changes in mood or behavior, increased secrecy, and withdrawal from friends and activities. Sit your loved one down and talk about it immediately if you notice any red flags.
According to studies, people who have a robust support system are more likely to stay sober after treatment. So, if you know someone with an addiction, support them in any way you can. With your help, they stand a much better chance of beating their addiction and reclaiming their life.
Ending Note:
No one willingly chooses to be addicted to drugs. It’s a powerful, destructive force that takes over a person’s life and controls their every decision. If you have a loved one suffering from drug addiction, please don’t give up on them. There are ways to help them overcome their addiction and join the road to sobriety. With your support, they can do it.
